A neon sign beckons as you drive down Good Latimer Expressway, glowing bright with Deep Ellum Texas and an arrow pointing to a former warehouse district now transformed into the nightlife hotspot for live music, cool bars and casual eateries.
Use our guide to the neighborhood to plan your next outing! While we've mentioned a few spots here, there are so many more to explore! Head out and find your new favorites - and tag @VisitDallas on Instagram when you make it there.
Adair's Saloon, the best hole-in-the-wall, burger, beer and live music joint around! From front to back, the site is covered with memorabilia. Check out the photo collection of people who've walked through Adair's doors - including a blown-up photo of Elvis Presley taken back in 1955.
The Church is one of Dallas' most unique and eclectic nightclub experiences. Music selections include ambient sounds, neo gothic and EBM, just to name a few. The space also features five lounges and a rooftop patio to dance the night away.
Two pianos creating endless fun all night as they play nearly any crowd request! Get your singing voice ready to create some laughs and memories at Louie Louie's.
Swing dancing lessons, relaxed acoustic entertainment, live entertainment and more can all be found under the same roof at this Deep Ellum staple. Fun fact: it's also the oldest bar in Dallas, with roots dating back to 1910.
Satisfy your punk craving with music from local and national bands at Three Links. They've got more than 50 beers to choose from and one truly memorable experience.
Fame is no stranger to Trees. This energetic music venue has hosted some of the world's most famous names in music. Check out Trees for a spot to jam and drink in Deep Ellum.
A long-time staple in the neighborhood, The Factory in Deep Ellum attracts musical acts from all over the world thanks to its intimate-yet-generous set up and trendy location.
It's one of the oldest clubs in Deep Ellum, and one of the best live music venues in Dallas. Club Dada hosts a wide range of artists almost every night throughout the year which can be heard on the outdoor patio.
Whether you're looking to grab a bite before a live show or it's the morning after a night out, there are several casual options, including AllGood Cafe (great for breakfast), Angry Dog (popular for burgers and hot dogs) and St. Pete's Dancing Marlin (known for its tuna steak sandwich).
There's often a line to get into the popular BBQ spot. Taste the ribs, macaroni and cheese and coleslaw and you'll quickly realize why and agree!
Take a bite of street Asian plates as you explore the art-filled district. Chow down on savory noodles and dumplings at this popular spot that you'll be talking about for days.
Come with an appetite – the individual slices are big enough to satisfy even the hungriest visitor.
Upscale dining inside a landmarked building that once housed the oldest standing hotel in Dallas. Go for the chef's seven-course meal with complimenting wine.
Start with the langos at Armoury DE, a traditional Hungarian flat bread, before digging into the No Reggie, a chipotle and citrus brined chicken sandwich topped with avocado and baby spinach. Live music lovers will delight in their weekly band line up.
Fried chicken and cocktails in one place? Count us in. Brick & Bones is only open for dinner, so head in after exploring the numerous art murals throughout the neighborhood.
Satisfy that sushi craving at Nori Handroll Bar, where raw fish and rice are wrapped in nori papper burrito-style.
Customize your own bowl of ramen at order kiosks in a matter of minutes, then kickback at a table and wait for the pipping hot, brothy goodness to arrive.
Whether its hot or cold outside, this tantalizing popsicle shop will catch your eye. Choose from an array of gourmet, Brazilian-style popsicles of all sorts of flavors – some boozy as well.
With a wall as far as the eye can see is lined with bottles of liquor, you know you're going to have a good time. Swing by Ruins for a pick-me-up in the form of a delicious cocktail or tortas and tacos.
Enjoy a cold glass of crisp, refreshing hard cider at this up-and-coming local cidery. Pick from several different ciders on draft, including special flavors like prickly pear and cucumber-habanero.
Kickback and enjoy the breathtaking Dallas skyline at this stylish rooftop bar with Mexican food and a margarita big enough to share with a party of friends.
Sample local ale and kickback on the relaxed outdoor patio of this quirky brewery. Eight different brews are kept on tap all year-round and plenty of seasonal and specialty releases are available as well.
Far from ordinary, the performing arts scene relishes in the experimental and underground, whether it's comedy at Dallas Comedy Club or plays at Undermain Theatre.
The Quixotic World Theatre House & Magikal Event Space frequently feature burlesque and unusual events.
Deep Ellum is home to art and street festivals every year, but there's always a sense of creativity throughout, whether it's the colorful murals, the Traveling Man sculptures or vibrant graffiti. Take in an art show opening at one of the area's many art galleries, including Barry Whistler Gallery, Kettle Art and more. Fashion and lifestyle photographers frequently use Deep Ellum as a backdrop. Take a cue from the pros and snap some artsy pics yourself.
Peruse a collection of unique books at this independent bookstore beloved by locals. The perfect place to escape the heat or cold by cozying up with a new book and a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a beer.
For those who love all things eclectic, vintage and homemade, pop into this flea-market inspired shop founded, owned and run by women. There you'll find the the perfect piece of home decor or stylish attire to add to your wardrobe.
Warstic is the brainchild of former baseball player Ben Jenkins, who partnered with renowned musician and owner of Third Man Records, Jack White. Together they created a premium baseball bat and baseball apparel company headquartered in Dallas.
Looking for a special gift for a loved one? This charming gift shop has everything – jewelry, things for the home, terrariums and much more.
Local Love: Deep Ellum Edition
Explore Deep Ellum’s Most Instaworthy Murals
Can’t Miss Live Music Clubs in Deep Ellum
10 New Bars to Check Out in Deep Ellum
Hidden Gems and Destinations in Dallas
Ten Best BBQ Joints in Dallas
Secondhand Shopping in Dallas
Black-owned Cocktail Spots to Support
Dallas Attractions With Accessibility Options
Live Music
Dallas Speakeasies